The wisdom of our elders

I have gained so much knowledge since I have been creating and producing podcasts on the topic of positive aging.

Here are my five ways to honor and use the strengths of our older years:

Move past the myths

Myth: Even active agers are technologically averse and challenged. The reality: People who are 55+ are among the leading adopters and drivers of many tech devices and services.

Myth: The elderly are no longer productive in the workplace. The reality: There is virtually no relationship between age and performance.

Seek creative work situations such as part time, flex time, remote work, contract work or being an entrepreneur

The COVID pandemic expanded venues for all workers. Now there are more opportunities for seniors, including remote work.

Value your education, experience and wisdom

We often overlook what older people bring to the table – and sometimes even hide it under the table. Access your skills and talents and talk about these strengths.

Your health and your time are your greatest work/life assets

We have less time chronologically as we get older, but we often have greater choice about how to spend our time. Our health is our “bank account,” and we need to safeguard it even more in our older years with exercise, good nutrition, enough sleep and a great support system.

Impart your wisdom, traditions and history

Elders have an important role in our community. We can impart traditions and ideals that are integral to our family’s history and personal identity.  We can impart knowledge, culture, values and lessons.

In the article “Dear Old People, It’s Never Too Late to Grow,” at Aish.com, Emuna Braverman writes: “… There is hope and growth and change available right up until our very last moments. We don’t get a free pass because we are older. We don’t get to treat people cavalierly, or worse, with cruelty. We don’t get to just wave away our bad behavior with a dismissive ‘That’s just who I am,’ no matter how old we are, no matter how infirm we may be.”

Braverman’s closing thoughts really resonated with me: “We all have a responsibility to be happy, to face life with joy and to treat others with consideration. The fact that this never ends is not bad news; it’s exciting news. And motivation to keep living!”

PATRICIA RASKIN, owner of Raskin Resources Productions, is an award-winning radio producer, business owner and leader.  She is on the board of directors of Temple Emanu-El, in Providence, and is a recipient of the Providence Business News 2020 Leaders and Achievers award. Her “Positive Aging with Patricia Raskin” podcast is broadcast on the Rhode Island PBS website, ripbs.org/positiveaging.